BIRMINGHAM heavy metal legend Tony Iommi received emotional words of support from friends, colleagues and fans last night after it was revealed he is battling cancer.

BIRMINGHAM heavy metal legend Tony Iommi received emotional words of support from friends, colleagues and fans last night after it was revealed he is battling cancer.

News the Black Sabbath lead guitarist, 63, has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma has stunned the music industry.

The bombshell comes as Sabbath – Tony, vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, bass player Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward – prepare for their first album in 33 years.

The band have been working in Los Angeles with top producer Rick Rubin. A world tour is also been planned, beginning in Moscow on May 18.

On June 10 the group were due to play their only British gig to up to 85,000 fans at Donnington’s Download Festival, in Leicestershire.

Black Sabbath revealed Tony’s battle on their official Facebook page.

The statement said: “His bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time. Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan. The Iron Man of rock and roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.”

They stressed the new album is still on track and that the group would continue to work on material with Tony in the UK.

Former Sabbath manager Jim Simpson – at the helm from 1968 to 1970 – last night spoke of his shock at the cancer news.

The 73-year-old said: “The last time I saw Tony was in the summer and he looked very healthy.

“He has always been doggedly determined.

“He was always very serious and I don’t think he’d do anything without giving it a lot of thought. I’m sure Tony will apply the same dogged determination to beating this.”

Gary Chapman, director of city-based musical instrument shop PMT, which boasted the rock god as a customer, said: “Tony’s a battler. Through all the ups and downs, the band has always come out fighting, and Tony always initiated that.”

Messages of support have also flooded heavy metal websites, Facebook and Twitter.